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At the trailing edge of the action potential spike, the membrane potential returns toward its resting level. In Fig. 10 it falls smoothly toward the K⁺ Nernst potential. In Fig. 11, it "undershoots" the resting level. This is a period of increased K⁺ conductance, characterized by a period of hyperpolarization; i.e., the membrane potential is greater (in magnitude) than during the time of rest.

 
 
Figure 11. Action potential when "resting" membrane potential is less in magnitude than the K⁺ equilibrium potential.

 
 
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